Whisky Jacks Wins Gold for Best Canadian Small Batch Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards
Cowichan Valley, BC – Merridale Cidery & Distillery is proud to announce that Whisky Jacks has been awarded Gold for Best Canadian Small Batch Single Malt at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards—a moment of great pride and deep meaning for our team and community.
Whisky Jacks was the first whisky ever crafted at Merridale, distilled in 2007 and aged for over 15 years. This small-batch spirit carries a personal significance for Janet Dochery, owner and chief disruptor at Merridale. It was named in honour of two men—Jack Docherty, father of Janet Docherty, and Jack Pipes, father of former co-founder Rick Pipes. The Jack’s love of whisky and their lasting influence on the founders inspired this spirit. Their legacy now lives on through this globally recognized whisky.
Crafted from 100% organic B.C. malt, Whisky Jacks was aged for five years in French oak before finishing for two additional years in a barrel that previously held Merridale’s Cowichan Cider Brandy. After over a decade of bottle aging, it developed a rich character, a mellow mouthfeel, and a distinctly Merridale finish—a true celebration of the land and people that make this region special.
“This release is deeply sentimental for us at Merridale,” says owner Janet Docherty. “To now see it recognized on the global stage is incredibly meaningful. This whisky was created in honour of our dads, and we were proud to share it with our customers—we hope they enjoyed it as much as we did.”
Although Whisky Jacks has now sold out, Merridale’s whisky journey is far from over. Inspired by a passion for crafting spirits that reflects the Cowichan Valley and the art of small-batch distilling, a new whisky using similar methods has begun the aging process. Now three years into maturation, this next release is developing with the same dedication to quality. Whisky lovers can be guaranteed a bottle of the next small-batch release coming this November by joining the Speakeasy Club now. The club offers exclusive access to limited editions and first picks of their finest spirits.
The recognition of Whisky Jacks is part of a larger moment for Canadian whisky. “This year’s World Whiskies Awards highlighted just how strong our industry is, with several Canadian producers earning top honours. And with American whiskies becoming harder to find on shelves, there’s never been a better time to explore and appreciate the incredible spirits being made right here at home”, says Janet, proudly.
Merridale extends heartfelt thanks to the master distiller, Laurent Lafuente, and the entire team for their skill, patience, and passion in crafting this award-winning whisky. “Most importantly, we thank our customers—past, present, and future—for believing in the story, the craft, and the love behind every bottle.” Janet adds. “This recognition is as much yours as it is ours”.
